Year in Review: Bergmann moved to the pen in 2009 and probably killed any remaining fantasy value he had left. Sure, his stuff got a little boost by switching to short appearances. Every pitch gained at least a mile per hour in velocity, which is probably a positive. On the other hand, every single one of his pitches underwent a significant change in movement over the last three years, as well. The result? More of the same, as he put in his third straight year of a FIP right around 5.00. His strikeout rate rose, but so did his walk rate. With his home-run rate (1.46 career), he can't afford to walk people. If he retains his higher strikeout rate (7.5) and lower home-run rate (1.31) from 2009, and gets back to his walk rate from 2008 (3.03), Bergmann might actually be a good back-end bullpen option.

The Year Ahead: Bergmann needs to smooth out the wrinkles in the bullpen, but the good news is that he still owns a Major League out-pitch (the curveball) and his starter's arsenal has played better in shorter outings. With the uncertainty surrounding incumbent closer Mike MacDougal and his astronomical walk rate, Bergmann may even run into some saves next year. He's the best non-lefty pitcher in the Nationals pen right now, and he has the upside to be a little better. On the other hand, he's been proven to be a mediocre pitcher in general, and he's not worth drafting in anything but the deepest of leagues. Just file the name away for later. MacDougal will inevitably struggle. (Eno Sarris)